Device with which I can measure the frequency of light

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding devices to measure the frequency of light from various sources, such as bulb light. Participants explore different types of devices, their costs, and alternatives for measuring light frequency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for recommendations on where to buy a device to measure light frequency.
  • Another participant provides a link to a handheld radiometer and notes that there are many options available, humorously mentioning the lack of a price specification.
  • A different participant suggests less expensive alternatives, specifically a link to spectrometers offered by a vendor.
  • Another contribution highlights that the original poster (OP) did not specify the precision required, suggesting that high-end tools may not be necessary. They propose that basic spectroscopes, which can be made from simple materials, could suffice for visual evaluation of light frequencies.
  • This participant also mentions the possibility of building a DIY spectrometer using a cardboard box and a CD, and notes that there are resources available online for constructing such devices.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple viewpoints regarding the types of devices available, their costs, and the necessary precision for measuring light frequency. There is no consensus on a single recommended device, and the discussion includes various suggestions and alternatives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific requirements for measurement precision or the intended applications of the devices, which may influence the choice of equipment.

Sanev
Does anybody know where i can buy a device with which i can measure the frequency of light from various sources such as bulb light?
 
Science news on Phys.org
The OP hasn't specified the required precision of measurements. All of the devices linked to so far are high-end, multi-function tools.
But if all that is needed is just to be able to split the light into its component frequencies, and evaluate them visually, there are much less expensive options.
A spectroscope (or spectrometer) at its most basic is just a diffraction grating in a tube, optionally with a frequency scale.
Searching for spectroscope on Amazon on Ebay, or just googling for 'spectroscope for sale' will net plenty of hits, including ~10$ classroom tools.

These days you can even build your own on the cheap. The most affordable option is a DIY spectrometer made out of a cardboard box and a CD:


More examples can be found on youtube by searching for DIY spectrometer. More involved ones provide means of capturing the spectra with a webcam or a smartphone, and analysing them with free software or apps.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: phinds and Nugatory

Similar threads

High School To measure light's frequency, do we interact with each crest + trough?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
1K
Undergrad Condenser lens retrofit for a lighting application
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
3K
Graduate Measuring the speed of light in a straight line
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
Undergrad Do two light waves with difference frequencies connect when they meet?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Graduate Out of phase light/photons, would it be measurable?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
High School What Keeps Photons Traveling Across the Galaxy?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
High School What is the Definition of a Candela?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Graduate Rayleigh criterion when light phase is known
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Undergrad How to Measure Magnification of a Lens System with Liquid Surface
  • · Replies 40 ·
2
Replies
40
Views
6K
Undergrad Lens Calculations to Focus Light
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K